Discover
Langres – amongst « 50 of the most beautiful cities of
France »
The
limestone promontory of the city of Langres soars above the lovely
countryside of Champagne and Le Lac de la Liez. This magnificent
city, sheltered behind an impressive 3.5 km of ramparts, is listed
amongst the “50 most beautiful cities of France”. During your
stay at the Kawan Village Lac de la Liez, you are invited to enjoy
your discovery visit of Langres.
A
City of History…
The
history of Langres dates back to the Gallo-Roman era. The city was
occupied by the Gauls early on. Positioned at the crossroads of a
dozen Roman ways, Langres was fortified by the Romans and baptised
“Andematunum’. One of the 7 tower gates marking the western
access to the city originates from this era.
The
Middle Ages brought about a period of intense prosperity to Langres;
in part due to the growing influence of its bishops. During the 14th
and 15th centuries, troubled times led to the construction
of the ramparts that encircle the town as its population
progressively increased. The flourishing Renaissance era witnessed
the construction of magnificent public, military and religious
buildings, as well as elegant mansions. The fortifications extended
into the 19th century, adding an impressive citadel
inspired by Vauban.
The
Ramparts, Towers and Gates of Langres
Langres
is encircled by more than 3 kilometres of ramparts and home to 7
gates and tower mountings. The most ancient gate dates back to the
Gallo-Roman era and is, in addition, the oldest building in the city.
The most recent, the ‘Porte des Terreaux’, or Terreaux Gate, was
constructed in 1855. Each gate is witness to a different period in
history, therefore boasts its own particular style. However, all
strongly contribute to the lovely countryside surrounding Langres.
Probably the most impressive is the ‘Porte des Moulins’, or the
Gate of the Windmills, dating back to 1647 and positioned at the far
eastern side of the ramparts.
In
addition to its gates, the city of Langres is renowned for the towers
that keep vigil over the ramparts. Like the gates, these towers
depict the diversified evolution of the city. They cover history’s
different eras, but nevertheless a majority was added during the
14th-16th centuries. Amongst the most
significant is the St Didier Tower, built in the 15th
century. Impeccably preserved, this tower demonstrates how the others
must have looked before modification or destruction over the
centuries. The Navarre and Orval towers, erected side by side in the
south-western part of the city, constitute a very beautiful ensemble
and are home to a monumental artillery tower measuring 28 metres in
diameter!
These
towers and gates belong to the city’s defence network, in past
history protecting Langres from a spread of over 3 kilometres of
ramparts. The promontory enables today’s visitor to discover the
city, its towers and gates in a most fascinating manner, but also
allows you to admire the stunning far-reaching panoramas from their
heights.
The
Historical Monuments and Buildings of Langres
Sheltered
behind its thick walls, the city of Langres is home to public,
religious and military buildings of utter beauty. Within the heart of
this lovely image, the cathedral holds a major role. Although its
façade originated in the 18th century the
cathedral, influenced by the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny, was actually
built in the 12th century. Langres has always been a
highly important religious seat. Thus, the Cathedral of Langres hosts
a beautiful interior and, above all, offers a stunning clear view of
Le Lac de la Liez and its surrounding region (if you are willing to
climb several dozens of stairs to the summit of its towers!). A
pretty cloister adjoins the cathedral.
In
addition to its cathedral, Langres is home to countless other
religious buildings that are definitely worthy of a visit. Amongst
these are the former Jesuit College, constructed in the 17th
century, standing close to the cathedral; the former Convent of the
Annonciades, dating back to the end of the 17th century;
or yet the former 18th century Monastery of the White
Friars.
The
hospital, the city hall and the Valtier de Choiseur Mansion (end 16th
century) are amongst the most beautiful secular buildings in the
city.
Strolling
through the Streets of the Old City
In
addition to its multitude of impressive religious and public
buildings, Langres is also home to a wealth of other delightful
treasures. Take a stroll through the maze of narrow streets of the
old city; the history of the city is really written in the ancient
stones of its houses. Admire the elegance of the Renaissance hotels,
the half-timbered houses dating back to the Middle Ages and the
Gothic facades. A stroll through the old city of Langres is a true
delve into the History of France!
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